Description
This Lemon Ricotta Pasta recipe is a quick and creamy Italian-inspired dish that combines al dente pasta with a luscious ricotta and parmesan sauce, brightened by fresh lemon zest and juice. Finished with aromatic garlic and fresh basil, it’s a light yet indulgent meal perfect for weeknights or casual entertaining.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 8 ounces pasta
- 1/4 cup pasta water (reserved from cooking)
Sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
Instructions
- Boil the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat to prepare for cooking the pasta.
- Cook the Pasta: Add the pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8 to 10 minutes.
- Heat the Olive Oil: While the pasta cooks, warm the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat to prepare for sautéing the garlic.
- Sauté Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the hot oil and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to brown it.
- Add Ricotta: Stir in the ricotta cheese with the garlic, combining them into a creamy base for the sauce.
- Incorporate Parmesan: Grate the Parmesan cheese into the skillet, stirring until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Add Lemon Zest: Stir in the freshly grated lemon zest, infusing the sauce with citrus aroma and brightness.
- Add Lemon Juice: Pour in the lemon juice and mix thoroughly until the sauce is well combined and smooth.
- Season the Sauce: Add salt and black pepper, stirring to evenly distribute the seasoning throughout the sauce.
- Reserve Pasta Water: Before draining, scoop out and set aside 1/4 cup of the pasta cooking water to adjust sauce consistency later.
- Drain Pasta: Drain the cooked pasta, shaking off any excess water to prevent dilution of the sauce.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the pasta to the skillet with the ricotta sauce, tossing gently to coat all the noodles evenly.
- Adjust Sauce Consistency: Gradually stir in the reserved pasta water a little at a time until the sauce reaches your preferred creaminess.
- Remove from Heat: Once the pasta is fully coated and the sauce is creamy, take the skillet off the heat to preserve freshness.
- Stir in Basil: Fold in the chopped fresh basil for a vibrant flavor and appealing color contrast.
- Serve: Plate the pasta immediately, garnishing with extra basil if desired, for best taste and presentation.
Notes
- Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the best citrus flavor impact.
- Reserve pasta water is key to achieving a creamy sauce that clings well to the noodles.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the sauce’s optimal creaminess.
- Gluten-free or alternative pasta can be used to cater to dietary needs.
- Optional garnish: additional Parmesan or cracked black pepper.
